How to Choose the Right Chandelier Size
A chandelier that is too small looks lost over a dining table, and one that is too big crowds the room. A few quick measurements, taken before you shop, tell you which size will look right in your space.
1. Start with the room
Add the length and width of the room in feet. The total, read in inches, is a good starting diameter for a chandelier that lights the room as a whole.
- A 12 x 14 ft dining room: 12 + 14 = 26, so look at chandeliers about 26 inches wide.
- A 16 x 18 ft living room: 16 + 18 = 34, so about 34 inches wide.
Use this as a range, not an exact rule. A room with a high ceiling or a lot of open space can take a larger piece.
2. Then check the table
Over a dining table, the table matters more than the room. Aim for a chandelier about one half to two thirds of the table's width, and at least 12 inches narrower than the table, so nobody bumps their head when they stand up.
- A 36 inch wide table: about 18 to 24 inches.
- A 42 inch wide table: about 21 to 28 inches.
- A 48 inch round table: about 24 to 32 inches.
For a long rectangular table, a linear chandelier or two matching pendants often spread the light more evenly than one round fixture. The Mirelle linear chandelier comes in 38.6 and 53.1 inch lengths; leave at least 6 inches between each end of the fixture and the end of the table.
3. Hang it at the right height
- Over a table: the bottom of the chandelier about 30 to 36 inches above the tabletop with an 8 ft ceiling. Add about 3 inches for each extra foot of ceiling height.
- In an open room or entryway: keep the bottom at least 7 ft above the floor, so people can walk underneath.
- Fixture height: a fixture about 2.5 to 3 inches tall for each foot of ceiling height usually looks in proportion. With an 8 ft ceiling, that is about 20 to 24 inches.
Check the length of the downrod or chain on the product page. Many chandeliers come with adjustable rods or chain so you can set the drop when you install it.
4. An example: choosing a Rhodes size
The Rhodes linen shade chandelier comes in three sizes:
- 4 lights: 28 inches wide, 17.3 inches high. It suits most dining tables 42 to 48 inches wide, and dining rooms of about 12 x 14 ft or more.
- 6 lights: 42.1 inches wide, 17.3 inches high. It suits larger living rooms, open-plan spaces and very wide tables.
- 8 lights (4+4): 48 inches wide, 25.2 inches high, on two tiers. It suits large rooms and higher ceilings.
5. A quick test before you buy
Cut a circle of cardboard (or tape a ring of string) to the diameter you have in mind and hold it up over the table, or tape it to the ceiling. If it looks right from the doorway and from a seat at the table, the size is right.
Before you order
- Check the Specifications table on each product page for the size, the socket type and whether bulbs are included.
- Hardwired fixtures should be installed by a licensed electrician.
- Not sure which size fits? Email us at support@lumorahearth.com with your room and table sizes, and we'll help you choose.